What car insurance costs in West Virginia

West Virginia's bill against the U.S.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) adds up what insurers collected in each state. In 2023, the most recent year it has published by state, the average West Virginia expenditure was $1,063 per insured car, 12% more than the $953 of 2022. Expenditure includes liability-only cars; for a car with liability, collision and comprehensive, the combined premium was $1,227.

Liability is the main reason the state's bill is lower: at $523 it is about 29% below the national average. Comprehensive goes the other way. At $302 it is about 27% above the U.S. figure, so the part of a full-coverage policy that pays for non-collision damage costs more here than in a typical state. When you price a newer car, expect that line to matter; see how make and model affect the price.

West Virginia's required coverage

State law sets proof of financial responsibility at $25,000 for injury or death of one person, $50,000 for two or more people and $25,000 for property damage in one accident. Those limits have applied since January 1, 2016. The West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) lists the same 25/50/25 as the mandatory minimum.

• Uninsured motorist coverage is required on every policy, at a minimum of $25,000/$50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property damage.
• Insurers must offer more. You can buy higher uninsured motorist limits and underinsured motorist coverage, which helps when the at-fault driver has too little insurance.
• Collision and comprehensive aren't required by the state. The OIC has a separate explainer on what "full coverage" really means, and a lender will usually require both on a financed car.

At an estimated 7.8% in 2023, West Virginia's share of uninsured drivers was about half the 15.4% national rate, according to the Insurance Research Council. Underinsured drivers with minimum limits are a separate risk; our page on limits and deductibles helps you decide how much to carry.

How the state oversees prices

The OIC does not set rates. Insurers usually file proposed rates before using them, and a filing takes effect after a waiting period unless the OIC disapproves it as excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. For an auto liability increase of 15% or more, the OIC must publish notice in the State Register and on its website, and consumers may comment until it acts.

The OIC's bulletin on rates lists changes in insurance credit scoring among the reasons a bill can rise, so credit can affect what you pay here. If your premium went up, ask your agent or company to explain the cause, as the bulletin suggests. More on credit-based insurance scores.

The West Virginia Automobile Insurance Plan

If you can't get coverage in the voluntary market, the West Virginia Automobile Insurance Plan (WVAIP) can provide it. Applicants are shared among all insurers licensed to write auto insurance in the state. You may be eligible with a valid West Virginia driver's license and a vehicle registered in West Virginia; an agent or broker can help you apply. Our guide to assigned risk plans explains what to expect.

Ways to pay less in West Virginia

1. 1 Start with the Annual Auto Survey. The OIC publishes a yearly survey of minimum auto liability premiums by company. Use it, or an independent agent, to compare companies on the same coverage.
2. 2 Make sure every discount is applied. The OIC advises checking that you receive all the discounts and credits you qualify for.
3. 3 Think before you switch. The OIC notes that moving to a new insurer may cost you some protection against nonrenewal, so weigh the saving.
4. 4 Ask the OIC for help. Property and casualty consumer services: (304) 720-8580 or 1-888-TRY-WVIC (888-879-9842). File a signed complaint online or on paper; an inquiry usually takes about 60 days.

Questions drivers ask